Sources of Information Used When Prescribing for Children, a Survey of Hospital Based Pediatricians

Background: Due to the lack of properly tested medicines for children, there is little available information with regards to indications and dosing of medications in children. Aim: To collect data on sources where hospital based pediatricians obtain prescribing information when treating children and the extent of collaboration with the hospital pharmacist. METHOD: Two hundred and fifty pediatricians in different hospitals within different cities in Jordan were asked to fill in a structured questionnaire regarding information sources used when prescribing for children. Results: Questionnaires were collected from 162 (64.8%) hospital based pediatricians, who have completed the questionnaire by the designated date. Most (75.5%) reported that the Lexi Comp's Drug Information Handbook was the source that they most frequently used for drug information when prescribing for in children. The BNF and the BNFc (British National Formulary for children) were found to be the most sources that contain sufficient information that aids pediatricians when prescribing for children. A minority (22%) claimed to consult with the hospital pharmacist when they face difficulties when prescribing for children. Conclusions: Pediatricians rely on different information sources when they prescribe for children. Those sources vary in their reliability in aiding pediatrician when prescribing. Further work should be done in the provision of useful information on pediatric drug therapy to pediatricians. More steps should be taking place to activate collaboration and interaction between pediatricians and pharmacists as well.